Jelly Roll has significantly impacted the music industry through his distinctive fusion of hip-hop, rock, and country music. Known for his heartfelt and often raw lyrics, Jelly Roll has built a loyal fan base and continues to grow his career. This article explores his rise to fame, personal life, and plans, alongside a look into his relationships, family, music career, and Jelly Roll net worth.
Who is Jelly Roll?
American singer, rapper, and songwriter Jelly Roll is well-known for fusing hip-hop, rock, and country music in a distinctive way. Raised in a challenging environment, Jelly Roll faced a troubled youth involving drug-related crimes, which led to time in jail. After his release, he turned his life around, using his struggles to fuel his music. His raw, authentic lyrics resonated with fans, propelling him from local fame in the Southern hip-hop scene to mainstream success across multiple genres.
Jelly Roll Age
As of October 1, 2024, Jelly Roll, born Jason Bradley DeFord on December 4, 1984, is 39 years old. The artist from Nashville, Tennessee, has built a successful career in hip-hop and country music genres. Despite his challenging past, Jelly Roll musical journey has resonated with fans worldwide.
Jelly Roll Height
Jelly Roll stands at 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm) tall. While his height may not be towering, his presence in the music industry certainly is, as he has captivated fans with his unique blend of hip-hop and country music.
Jelly Roll Weight
Over the years, Jelly Roll weight has fluctuated, and he has been open about his journey toward better health. As of 2024, he weighs around 250 pounds (113 kg). Many of his admirers love him for who he is—an authentic person who values his openness about his issues with his body and health.
Jelly Roll Real Name
Jelly Roll real name is Jason Bradley DeFord. Jelly Roll adopted his stage name during his childhood, a nickname given to him by his mother because of his chubby appearance as a kid.
While Jelly Roll is his well-known stage persona, Jason DeFord reflects the person behind the artist, whose journey from troubled youth to stardom has resonated with many fans.
Jelly Roll embodies the artist’s unique and genuine style, drawing fans across multiple genres. His authenticity and raw storytelling continue to connect deeply with audiences.
Jelly Roll Kids
Jelly Roll is the proud father of two children: his daughter Bailee Ann (born in 2008) and his son Noah Buddy (born in 2016). Bailee Ann was born while Jelly Roll was incarcerated, a life-changing event that shifted his perspective and motivated him to pursue a better path. Both children are from previous relationships, and Jelly Roll shares a close bond with them. His wife, Bunnie XO, is a loving stepmother to both kids.
Jelly Roll Siblings
Jelly Roll has three siblings: two half-brothers, Roger and Scott, and a half-sister named Shelby. These siblings come from his father’s side of the family. While they maintain a relatively low profile, Jelly Roll has mentioned them in public forums, particularly during personal moments of family significance.
Jelly Roll Background
Raised in Antioch’s working-class neighborhood, Jelly Roll exposure to poverty and his family’s struggles significantly impacted his worldview and music. Music was a coping mechanism for him; by 9 or 10, he had already begun writing rap songs. His early influences were Southern hip-hop legends like Three 6 Mafia, UGK, and 8Ball & MJG, which shaped his musical style as he started selling mixtapes independently from his car.
Despite the adversity, Jelly Roll determination never faltered. He used his experiences to create raw, authentic music that resonated with listeners. His background—marked by hardship, legal issues, and emotional challenges—shaped him into the artist he is today, capable of blending multiple genres like hip-hop and country to tell his story.
This resilience and openness about his complicated past have made him relatable, especially to fans who have faced their struggles. His effort and talent have allowed him to turn from a troubled youth to a recognized artist.
Jelly Roll Parents
Jelly Roll comes from a close-knit family. His father’s name is E.P. La Menthe, a meat salesman, and his mother, Louise Monette, was a homemaker.
Jelly Roll Early Life
His parents, Donna and Horace “Buddy” DeFord faced their struggles—his mother dealt with mental illness and addiction, while his father worked as a meat salesman and a bookie on the side. This turbulent environment contributed to a difficult upbringing, leading Jelly Roll down a troubled path during his youth. His parents’ divorce when he was 13 years old further added to the instability in his life. By his teenage years, he was frequently in trouble with the law, eventually spending time in juvenile detention and later prison for drug-related charges.
Jelly Roll Public Appearance
Jelly Roll is known for his distinctive appearance, which includes multiple tattoos covering his face and body. His tattoos reflect his personal history, hardships, and redemption, with some representing significant moments in his life. In public appearances, whether on stage or in interviews, Jelly Roll often sports a laid-back style, reflecting his humble beginnings and connection with his fans. His appearance, while rugged, complements his raw and emotional music.
Jelly Roll Dating Life
Before meeting and marrying Bunnie XO, Jelly Roll had previous relationships that resulted in the birth of his two children. However, much of his earlier dating life remains private, and Jelly Roll has not spoken extensively about his previous romantic engagements. His relationship with Bunnie, which began in 2015, marked a turning point in his personal and professional life.
Jelly Roll Relationship
Jelly Roll, born Jason DeFord, is happily married to Alyssa “Bunnie XO” DeFord. The couple met in 2015 in Las Vegas, where Jelly Roll was performing, and they married in a spontaneous ceremony in 2016. Their relationship has been a focal point of his life and career, often shared publicly through social media and interviews. Jelly Roll has credited Bunnie with unwavering support throughout his musical journey. As of 2024, their bond remains strong, and they renewed their vows in 2023 at the same chapel where they originally wed.
Jelly Roll Wife
Bunnie XO, born Alyssa DeFord, is a well-known TikTok star, YouTuber, and entrepreneur. In addition, she hosts the well-liked podcast Dumb Blonde, where she talks about various subjects like relationships, humor, and behind-the-scenes information about Jelly Roll life. In addition to her podcast, Bunnie has built a successful business empire with merchandise and branding, which complements Jelly Roll career. Bunnie is a stepmother to Jelly Roll two children and has played a significant role in shaping the couple’s public and personal lives.
Jelly Roll and Bunnie XO
Jelly Roll and his wife, Bunnie XO, have become an iconic duo, with Bunnie supporting Jelly Roll music career and managing her own podcast and business ventures. The couple renewed their wedding vows in 2023, further solidifying their bond. Bunnie has played a crucial role in Jelly Roll personal and professional life, contributing to their financial success.
Jelly Roll Net Worth
As of 2024, Jelly Roll net worth is estimated to be between $4 million to $7 million, depending on various sources.
This wealth has been accumulated through his long career in music, particularly in hip-hop and country genres, as well as other ventures, including YouTube ad revenue, sponsorships, merchandise sales, and business partnerships.
Total Net Worth Breakdown
Jelly Roll income streams are diverse, contributing to his overall financial success. Here’s a breakdown of how his net worth has grown:
Music Sales and Streaming Revenue
Jelly Roll music career spans over two decades. He generates revenue through:
- Album Sales: With 18 studio albums and several mixtapes, Jelly Roll earns royalties from every sale.
- Streaming Sites: He gets paid for streaming and downloads on services like Spotify and Apple Music, where his music is extensively accessible.
Estimated earnings from music: $1 million – $2 million annually.
YouTube Ad Revenue and Sponsorships
Jelly Roll YouTube channel has millions of subscribers and views, making it a lucrative income stream. He earns through ads and sponsorship deals from his videos. His estimated annual earnings from YouTube alone are in the range of $189,000 to $3 million.
YouTube Stats:
- Subscribers: Over 3.12 million
- Total views: More than 2.3 billion.
Touring and Live Performances
Touring is a significant source of Jelly Roll income, especially after his crossover into country music. Jelly RollBackroad Baptism Tour in 2023 was a massive success, with most shows selling out. A significant amount of his revenue comes from:
- Ticket Sales: Jelly Roll makes a significant amount per concert, with estimates ranging from $200,000 to $749,000 for each performance.
- Merchandise Sales: Fans buy various merchandise at his shows, further adding to his net worth.
Songwriting and Royalties
As a songwriter, Jelly Roll earns royalties from the music he writes for himself and other artists. He receives extra money every time one of his songs is broadcast on the radio, streamed online, or used for commercial purposes.
Merchandise and Clothing Line
Jelly Roll has also diversified into the fashion business, launching his Stay True Clothing Line, which sells apparel like t-shirts, hoodies, and hats. This business venture adds to his wealth, although specific earnings are not widely publicized.
Collaborations and Business Ventures
Jelly Roll has worked with musicians in various genres, increasing both his fan base and revenue. He has also explored other ventures, like brand partnerships, which contribute to his overall financial success.
Real Estate and Assets
Jelly Roll wealth also includes investments in real estate and luxury cars. He owns a sprawling house and drives a Mercedes Benz GLA, reflecting his luxury taste.
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Jelly Roll Wonderful Career
Jelly Roll career has spanned over two decades, beginning in the hip-hop genre and later transitioning to country music. He released his first major studio album in 2011, and over the years, he gained a following with independent releases, collaborations, and mixtapes. A significant turning point in his career was his 2021 crossover into country music, particularly with the breakthrough track “Son of a Sinner,” which led to three CMT Music Awards for him in 2023. As of 2024, Jelly Roll has released 18 studio albums, 22 mixtapes, and several hit singles, establishing himself as a versatile artist capable of crossing genres from hip-hop to country.
Jelly Roll Social Media Presence and Total Followers (As of October 2024)
TikTok
Jelly Roll has a significant presence on TikTok, sharing personal moments, behind-the-scenes footage from his tours, and promotional content for his music. His TikTok account, @officialjellyroll, boasts over 7.6 million followers and has garnered 63.3 million likes across his videos.
On Instagram, Jelly Roll connects with his fans through photos of his performances, personal life, and updates on new music. He has more than 3.3 million followers on Instagram. Where he frequently posts stories and highlights from his tours and collaborations.
YouTube
Jelly Roll’s YouTube channel has a thriving following and over 4.0 million subscribers. The channel features music videos, live performances, and personal vlogs. His videos have accumulated over 2.32 billion views, making it a key platform for his music and brand.
On Facebook, Jelly Roll maintains an active presence with over 4.9 million followers. He shares updates, event information, and personal messages with his audience, extending his reach through this platform.
Twitter (X)
On Twitter (X), Jelly Roll actively engages with over 315.6k followers, sharing thoughts on his music tour experiences and interacting with fans.
Through these platforms, Jelly Roll connects with his audience, promoting his music while offering fans a glimpse into his life. His social media activity is crucial in expanding his fanbase and supporting his successful music career.
Jelly Roll Fun Facts
Nickname Origin: Jelly Roll got his nickname from his mother due to his chubby appearance as a child.
Tattooed Face: His heavily tattooed appearance has become part of his signature look, with many tattoos reflecting his life and struggles.
Genre Blending: Jelly Roll successfully blends hip-hop, country, and rock in his music, appealing to a diverse audience.
Legal Issues: He faced multiple legal challenges as a teenager, spending time in jail, which he has often spoken about in his music.
Fatherhood: Jelly Roll learned about the birth of his daughter while incarcerated, which served as a significant turning point in his life.
Jelly Roll Philanthropy Efforts
Jelly Roll’s philanthropic endeavors reflect his dedication to giving back, particularly to communities and causes that resonate with his personal experiences. His journey from a troubled past to a successful career has deeply influenced his desire to support those in need.
Supporting At-Risk Youth: One of Jelly Roll major philanthropic initiatives is his work with at-risk youth. During his 2023 Backroad Baptism Tour, he partnered with Live Nation to donate $1 from every ticket sold, raising nearly $600,000 to support programs for youth in need. Additionally, he has funded the creation of a music studio at the Davidson County Juvenile Detention Center in Nashville, the same facility where he was once incarcerated, providing a creative outlet for incarcerated youth.
Mental Health and Addiction Support: Empathizing with mental health and addiction treatment, Jelly Roll has used his personal experiences as a springboard. He frequently raises funds for rehabilitation centers and partners with organizations such as NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) and Shatterproof, which focus on mental health awareness and addiction recovery, respectively.
Helping Individual Fans: Jelly Roll has also made life-changing contributions to individual fans. For example, in July 2024, he promised to fund the college education of a fan, Joy Gadalla, a first-generation Egyptian immigrant. Gadalla was inspired by Jelly Roll music and personal journey, and she held up a sign at his concert asking for help with her tuition, to which Jelly Roll responded generously.
Local Community Outreach: In his hometown of Nashville, Jelly Roll actively participates in community outreach. He has launched plans for what he hopes will be the largest toy drive in Nashville’s history, aiming to bring joy to underprivileged children during the holiday season. He has also been involved in initiatives to combat homelessness by providing essential supplies to those in need.
Veteran Support: Jelly Roll has extended his charitable work to supporting veterans. He has participated in benefit concerts and other initiatives to raise funds for organizations like the Wounded Warrior Project, which assists veterans with their physical and mental health recovery.
Jelly Roll philanthropic efforts continue to grow as he uses his platform not only for musical success but also to make a significant difference in the lives of others, reflecting his compassionate nature and desire to give back.
Jelly Roll Future Plans
As of 2024, Jelly Roll has several ambitious plans for the future. He continues to expand his music career, focusing on releasing more albums that fuse country, hip-hop, and rock elements. Additionally, Jelly Roll plans to further his business ventures, including his clothing line and merchandise. Touring remains a significant part of his future, with sold-out shows nationwide. He has also expressed interest in collaborating with more artists across different genres, pushing the boundaries of his music.
Conclusion
Jelly Roll journey from a troubled past to a millionaire artist is a testament to his resilience and talent. Jelly Roll net worth of $4 million to $7 million in 2024 is a reflection of his perseverance, talent, and entrepreneurial spirit. With a thriving career, he has built an impressive legacy in the music industry. Whether through his music, personal reflections, or relationship with his fans, Jelly Roll remains a figure of inspiration for many, proving that it’s never too late to turn your life around.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jelly Roll
What is Jelly Roll real name?
His real name is Jason Bradley DeFord, a nickname his mother gave him during childhood due to his chubby appearance.
How old is Jelly Roll?
He was born on December 4, 1984, at 39 years old.
Where is Jelly Roll from?
Jelly Roll is from Nashville, Tennessee. Also raised in there, a working-class neighbourhood on the outskirts of Nashville.
What genres of music does Jelly Roll perform?
He started his career in hip-hop but has since incorporated rock, country, and soul into his music. His recent work leans heavily toward country and southern rock.
Why did Jelly Roll spend time in jail?
Jelly Roll spent his early years in and out of jail due to drug-related offences and robbery. He decided to turn his life around after the birth of his daughter in 2008.
Is Jelly Roll married?
Yes, he is married to Bunnie DeFord, also known as Bunnie XO, a model, podcast host, and social media personality. The couple married in 2016.
Does Jelly Roll have children?
Yes, he has a daughter named Bailee Ann, born in 2008, and a son named Noah. Bunnie XO’s wife has played a big role in helping him gain custody of Bailee.
Where does Jelly Roll live?
Despite his fame, Jelly Roll lives with his wife and family in Nashville, Tennessee.
What are Jelly Roll’s biggest hits?
His most popular songs include “Son of a Sinner,” which hit No. 1 on country radio, and “Dead Man Walking,” which topped the rock charts.
What is Jelly Roll’s pre-show ritual?
Jelly Roll follows a specific pre-show routine that includes eating two bananas and a short boxing workout to get energized before his performances.